On the function or cosmetics I would prefer both but if I had to choose I would pick function. And I guess I have never clipped my stereo then if you can really hear the difference. Because I have turned those knobs pretty high up there but no serious distortion that I could hear (i don't have the best ears in the world though haha). And I don't have enough money for a 4,500$ amp at the moment sorry RGA haha